Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Private Frank L. Palmer (MCSN: 538856), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Radio Operator of Company D, Second Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 15 March 1945. Volunteering for duty as a Rifleman after his company suffered severe casualties, Private Palmer advanced with his platoon and suddenly came under heavy fire from the enemy concealed in spider traps and pillboxes. Quickly exhausting his supply of grenades in the ensuing fire-fight, he gathered other grenades from members of the platoon and, boldly charging the hostile positions annihilated our routed many of the Japanese. By his courageous initiative and indomitable fighting spirit, he enabled his platoon to continue the advance. His devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received